2012-13 college handbook
TRANSCRIPT
1
2012-13 College Handbook
Getting Started 2
The Application Process 5 General Information 5
Admissions Options 5
The Application 6
Transcripts & Secondary School Reports 8
Recommendations 9
Standardized Tests 10
SAT I & II Calendars 12
Audition & Portfolio Review 13
Cost 13
Paying For College: Financial Aid 14
Appendix College Guidance Calendar/JUNIOR YEAR 18
College Guidance Calendar/SENIOR YEAR 20
Senior Year Credits 22
Interviews/Helpful Hints 23
Useful Websites 25
BSA College Acceptances/Class of 2012 26
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Getting Started
First of all, take a deep breath (students AND parents!) The college application process can be
overwhelming, frustrating, and tiresome. However, if you put one foot in front of the other and do not
procrastinate, it can be a fairly pleasant experience. The first step of this process is to think about
where you might want to be for the next two to four years.
What are my options?
•Liberal Art Schools/Research Universities: Traditional 4-year schools; both
academic and art classes available.
•Liberal Art Schools/Research Universities with Conservatory programs: A ‘school
within a school’; must audition/show portfolio; must be accepted into both the art
program and the academic program; may offer BA or BFA degrees.
•Conservatories and Visual Art Schools: Most are 4-year schools; some have core,
basic academics; must audition/show portfolio; usually offer a BFA degree.
•Community Colleges: 2-year Associates Degree programs; many students go to
community college to raise their GPA and then transfer to a 4-year school.
•Professional Dance Companies
Some basics to consider
Setting (urban, rural, college town)
Size
Geography/weather
Public vs. private
Religious or ethnic affiliation
In state vs. out of state
Diversity
Campus Life (sports, clubs, fraternities & sororities, housing)
Public vs. Private
NOTE: ‘Cost’ is not included in this list because even though a school may be very expensive, you do not know how much
money a school will give you. After the financial aid packages arrive, an expensive out-of-state private college may cost
the same as an in-state public college (see ‘Financial Aid’).
RESEARCH, RESEARCH, RESEARCH!!!
Internet Searches There are a TON of college search engines. Here are some good ones:
http://connection.naviance.com/bsah/ (your
personalized Naviance account)
www.nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator
www.petersons.com (the Advanced Search)
www.collegeprowler.com (current college
students review schools)
www.unigo.com (current college students
review schools)
www.collegeboard.com
www.collegeconfidential.com
www.collegeview.com
www.princetonreview.com
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Be realistic and know your numbers. If you are interested in a particular school, look up the average
GPA and SAT scores of its incoming freshmen. If you have a 2.0 GPA and 1100 composite SAT
score, you don’t want to waste your money and time on an application to Harvard. That said, you
should certainly apply to one or two realistic reach schools. Many of the college search engines listed
above will allow you to do a search just based on the numbers. This can be very helpful in making
your search more manageable.
Conversations Talk to students who have graduated from BSA, academic teachers, department heads, private lesson
teachers, parents, friends, etc. Learn about their college experiences and listen to their suggestions. Is
there someone you know or admire who is doing what you would like to be doing someday? Look up
their biography and see where they went to school. Be inquisitive!
College Fairs See the Junior and Senior year calendars for the dates of the NACAC (National Association for
College Admission Counseling) college and performing art college fairs. GO! Listen in homeroom
for announcements about other opportunities in the Baltimore area.
BSA college representative visits Every year, college admissions representatives from schools across the county visit BSA. If your art
department head or academic teacher allows you to miss class, you may attend the information session.
Permission slips are in Abby’s office.
Visit the schools Once you have a reasonable list of schools you are interested in, visit as many of them as possible. For
financial reasons, some families choose to visit schools after the student receives the acceptance letters.
You may desperately want to go to a school until you get there and realize that it doesn’t feel right.
One school that was fairly low on your list
might jump to the top after you have seen what it has to offer. If you do decide to visit a school, call
the admissions office and schedule a tour/information session. Ideally, for the schools on the top of
your list, arrange an overnight visit with a current student (this is often done after the initial visit). It is
important to see what life at a school is like outside of the classroom.
Seniors are allowed five excused absences for college visits and auditions. However, it is highly
recommended that visits take place on school vacations, audition week, and professional days that are
attached to weekends.
Interviews Many schools offer on-campus interviews that you can schedule when you tour. Some schools offer
off-campus interviews that may be with an alumni representative of the school who lives in the
Baltimore area. An interview can be an important way for both student and interviewer to assess the
student’s interest in and fit with the institution. After an interview, the interviewer will send a written
report to the admissions committee about his/her impressions of the student. This information goes in
the student’s application file and may be reviewed.
Please see the Appendix at the end of this Handbook for some helpful hints about interviews.
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What do schools need?
(See ‘The Application Process’ for more detailed information.)
Applications
All schools have an application for admission. The application can be found on each school’s website
(under ‘Apply’, ‘Prospective Students’, ‘Admissions’, etc.) Almost all schools prefer that you apply
online (some even waive the application fee if you do so). The application consists of basic questions
about you and your family, your academic history, your extracurricular activities, community service
work, and most applications include an essay.
Transcript
Your transcript is a listing of all of the classes you have taken since the 9th
grade and the grades you
have received in those classes.
GPA
Your GPA (Grade Point Average) is the quantitative measure of your record in high school, from
freshman year up to your most recent report card. It is on a 4.0 scale (4.0=A, 0=F) and includes both
your academic and art grades. GPAs and classes at BSA are unweighted and we do not rank
students.
SAT Scores
Most schools require scores from the SAT Reasoning test (or the ACT which is not widely used in the
Northeast). The SAT tests your knowledge in math, critical reading, and writing. At BSA, it is
required that each student take the SAT at least twice. It is recommended that students take it once in
May or June of their junior year and once in October (preferred) or November of their senior year.
Students who will be applying to more competitive schools will also need to take at least two SAT II
tests (also called Subject tests) in addition to the SAT reasoning test.
Recommendations
Schools usually require at least two recommendations. Sometimes the application will tell you who
should write them.
Auditions/Portfolios
Most auditions and portfolio reviews are scheduled after your application has been received. It is up to
you to call the art office and schedule the appointment. Most auditions and portfolio reviews will be at
the school to which you are applying. You will be working with your art teachers to prepare auditions
and portfolios. Please check each school’s website carefully for audition requirements.
Your College List By September of your senior year, you should have your college application list fairly well established.
Most students apply to 7-10 schools. Your list should include the following:
2-3 Safety Schools: Schools you know you can get into
4-6 Target Schools: Schools you are likely to get into
1-2 Reach Schools: Schools that may be difficult to get into, but you have a shot.
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The Application Process
General Information
Each school to which you are applying has a website. Make sure you visit each website’s Admissions
page and review all Admissions criteria, Application requirements (ex. Does one school need 3
recommendations and another require none? Does one school require 2 Subject Tests and another
doesn’t even require an SAT score?), and Application deadlines. Organize requirements and dates by
making a chart, buying a calendar just for college deadlines, etc.
The student completes the application and sends it directly (electronically or by mail) to the colleges
by the deadline.
The student schedules all auditions.
The student is responsible for sending his/her SAT scores to each college (see ‘SATs’).
The student requests recommendations from particular teachers and gives each teacher an addressed,
(ONE) stamped envelope for each school that needs the recommendation.
The teacher will send the recommendations (See ‘Recommendations’).
The student gives Abby a Transcript Request Form, Secondary School Report (if indicated), and two
addressed, stamped (two stamps) envelopes for each school to which the student is applying.
Abby sends transcripts, Secondary School reports, the School Profile and the Grading Scale (see
‘Transcripts and Secondary School Reports).
Admission Options
Early Decision: The application is usually due in November, and a decision is made by December.
Some schools offer an Early Decision II plan which has an application deadline later than November.
Early Decision admittance to a school is BINDING (i.e. if you are accepted, you must attend). For this
reason, you may only use this option for one school. Students are generally not encouraged to use this
option unless they are 100% certain that this is the school they wish to attend AND they are able to pay
the full tuition.
Early Action/Priority Decision: The application is usually due in November, and a decision is made by
December. Early Action decisions are not binding (i.e. if you are accepted to the school, you do not
have to attend). Therefore, if many of your schools offer Early Action admission, you may apply to all
of them using this option. In some cases, institutions may place limitations on the number of
additional Early Action applications a student may submit. It is critical that you review the
requirements of each school that offers Early Action. Students are strongly encouraged to take
advantage of the Early Action option if a school offers it.
Regular Decision: The application is due anytime from November to February and a decision is made
by April.
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Rolling Admission: There is no set deadline for the application. Some schools (usually state schools)
will make admittance decisions as applications are received. When applying to a school that offers
Rolling Admission, it is important to apply as soon as possible (see below).
A NOTE ABOUT DEADLINES:
Though colleges and conservatories usually have fixed deadlines for applications, it is beneficial that
students send their applications as soon as possible. Though a deadline may be January 1, you can be
sure that college admissions representatives are not waiting until that deadline to review and add
students to their acceptance lists.
The Application
There are four ways to apply to colleges:
1. The colleges own application, found on each college’s website
2. The Common Application
3. The Universal Application (same general format as the Common Application)
4. The Unified Application for Music and Performing Arts Schools
About the Common Application
â–ªThe Common Application is accepted by over 400 institutions. It was developed so students could
apply to multiple colleges using one form.
â–ªMost schools that offer the Common Application will require a supplement that usually includes a
short essay that is specific to a particular college.
â–ªThe application is available in July at www.commonapp.org.
â–ªThe Common Application includes a supplement for arts. All students at BSA who are using the
Common Application are encouraged to include this supplement, whether they are interested in
continuing in the arts or not.
Application tips
â–ªIf your email address is offensive or silly, please create an appropriate (first initial, last name, number)
email address that you will use for your college applications.
â–ªCheck and verify your parents and siblings college attendance and graduation dates. If your parents
did not attend college, it is important that colleges know that you are a first-generation college student.
â–ªSecondary School = High School
â–ªDecision Plan = Regular Decision, Early Action, Early Decision, etc.
â–ªAdmissions representatives want to see your full senior schedule. You want to list all academic AND
art classes that you are taking senior year. If there is not room in the 1st and 2
nd semester columns, use
the 3rd
trimester column and make a note that all classes are full-year. To see a list of senior class
credits, please go to the Appendix at the end of this Handbook.
â–ªIf the application has a question about other institutions to which you are applying, it is advisable to
list two or three similar schools. Do not give a full list.
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â–ªBaltimore School for the Arts Information
BSA Address: Baltimore School for the Arts
712 Cathedral St.
Baltimore, MD
21201
BSA CEEB code: 210044
Counselor’s Name: Abby McKelvey
Counselor’s Title: Guidance Counselor
Counselor’s E-mail: [email protected]
Counselor’s Phone: (443) 642-5164
Counselor’s Fax: (410) 539-1430
BSA does not rank students.
BSA does not weigh classes.
BSA uses a 4.0 GPA scale.
BSA is a public school, not a charter school.
â–ªExtracurricular Activities
Because you have the unusual experience of attending a performing arts high school, you may
list gallery showings, concerts, recitals, theatre performances, stage management experience,
etc. that you have been involved in at BSA, as well as any outside activities or paid work
experience.
â–ªWriting/Essay
The essay is your opportunity to individualize your application. This is your chance to give an
admissions representative some insight into who you are (or in many cases, where you have
been, and where you would like to go).
Consider the fact that most college admissions representatives read hundreds, if not thousands,
of essays in a very short period of time. If you can catch their attention with a ‘hook’ in the
first couple of sentences, you are ahead of the game. Tell them what you want them to know,
NOT what you think they want to hear.
When choosing a topic (if a few are offered) and when writing a college essay, please ask
yourself, “What do I want this essay to reveal about me? Will the reader have a sense of my
character and personality after reading it? What is something about me that might make me
stand out from every other applicant
If you are having trouble finding a topic, answering the following questions may
lead to some ideas:
What is my greatest accomplishment?
What am I passionate about? A subject? A cause? A role model?
Have I overcome a serious hardship?
What is different about me than someone with the same GPA and test scores?
Have I shown leadership? When and how?
Did I attend a special summer program?
What do I struggle with and how do/did I overcome it?
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â–ªSome helpful hints:
â–ªDO NOT PROCRASTINATE.
â–ªThe admissions representatives expect you to write the way a 17- or 18-year old student would
write, not the way your parent would write. It is important (and highly advised) to ask a
parent, teacher, or literate friend to review your essay, but the final product must sound like
you!
â–ªWrite what comes to mind and edit later.
And then edit again.
And then edit again.
â–ªBe very aware of grammar, spelling, and organization around the theme.
â–ªBe concise. An admissions representative has, on average, 2 to 3 minutes per essay. Do not
exceed the specified length.
â–ªIf you are having difficulty thinking of something to write about that might set you apart,
remember that seniors at other schools do not have the experience of going to a school like
BSA. There may be an essay there.
â–ªIt is fine to use one essay for multiple colleges, as long as you are addressing the essay
question that is asked.
â–ªIf there is an Optional Essay, DO IT.
â–ªPayment
Schools have application fees ranging from $0-$150 with most in the $50 range. If you receive
free and reduced lunch, you are eligible for four application fee waivers. Please see Abby to
request an Application fee waiver for the schools to which you are applying. Keep in mind that
not all schools allow fee waivers and waivers are limited.
If possible, always pay online with a credit card. Your application will be submitted
immediately.
â–ªIf you have any questions at all about an application, ask Abby before submitting it.
Transcripts and Secondary School Reports
Every school to which you apply needs your high school transcript. Your transcript is a report of your
grades from ninth grade up to your most recent report card.
In addition, most colleges require the high school counselor to submit information about you in the
form of a Secondary School Report. In almost every application you will find a Secondary School
Report (sometimes called a Counselor Recommendation form or a Counselor Report). If you are using
the Common Application to apply to several schools, Abby only needs ONE Common Application
Secondary School Report. Abby also includes a BSA School Profile and a BSA Grading Scale.
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For EVERY school to which you apply, please give Abby the following:
1. A Transcript Request form (Blank forms are to the left of Abby’s office door)
2. The Secondary School Report. The student portion must be filled out and signed.
3. One addressed (to the Admissions office) envelope with TWO stamps. Do not include a
return address.
It is of utmost importance that you meet the deadlines for giving Abby these items. Timely mailing is
not guaranteed if the deadline is not met. If you have these documents ready before the deadlines,
please give them to Abby. The sooner, the better!
*Friday, October 5: Transcript Requests/Secondary School Reports/envelopes for all
November deadline applications.
*Friday, November 2: Transcript Requests/Secondary School Reports/envelopes for ALL
applications.
Please note that colleges receive an enormous amount of mail in a very short period of time. A person
has to open every piece of mail and enter it into the computer system. You may receive an automatic
notice that a transcript has not yet arrived because it is still sitting in a mailbag. Do not worry!
However, please inform Abby if you receive a notice.
In addition to the Secondary School Reports, most schools will want a Mid-Year Report. If your
schools need Mid-Year reports, a Mid-Year Request Form will be available in January.
It is school policy that official transcripts are sent directly to institutions from the Guidance
Counseling office. We do not give students or parents official transcripts.
Recommendations
Most colleges require at least two recommendations from your teachers. Some applications will be
specific about who should write the recommendations. They almost always require at least one from
an academic teacher. If they do not specify, it is advisable to ask for a recommendation from one
academic teacher and one arts teacher.
Think about who you would like to write you a recommendation. It should not necessarily be the
teacher in whose class you have received the highest grade. Sometimes, it is beneficial to get a
recommendation from a teacher in whose class you have struggled and ultimately succeeded. That
teacher will be able to talk about your discipline and perseverance when faced with a challenge.
Ask the teacher IN PERSON if s/he would be willing to write you a recommendation. Please do not
assume that every teacher would be comfortable writing a recommendation for you. Of course you
would not want them to write one if they are hesitant.
Some applications may include a Recommendation Form that you are supposed to give to your
teacher(s). In addition, for every school that needs a recommendation, you should give your teacher a
(ONE) stamped, addressed (to the Admissions office) envelope. Do not include a return address. The
teacher will mail the recommendation her/himself. If a college requests recommendations online, send
it to the teacher after you have asked him/her in person. Follow up and make sure that your teacher
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received the online request. Make sure your teachers are aware of the application deadlines for all of
your schools.
It is of utmost importance that you give your teachers plenty of time to write your recommendation.
The deadlines to request a recommendation from your teachers are the same as the deadlines to request
transcripts:
*Friday, October 5: Request recommendations for all November deadline applications.
*Friday, November 2: Request recommendations for ALL applications.
It is school policy that recommendations are sent directly to institutions from the recommending
teacher. We do not give students or parents recommendations.
Standardized Tests
SAT I
Also called the SAT Reasoning Test, this test is regarded as a measure of the critical thinking skills
you will need for success in college. It contains three multiple choice sections: Critical Reading,
Mathematics, and Writing. Each of the three sections is scored on a 200-800 point basis for a possible
score of 2400. The essay is scored on a 2-12 point scale. The test is three hours and 45 minutes long.
For the math section, students should use a four-function, scientific, or graphing calculator.
It is a requirement that all BSA students take the SAT I at least twice. It is recommended that students
take the SAT at the end of their junior year (May or June) and in the fall (October [preferred] or
November) of their senior year. It is not advisable to take the SAT more than three times.
Statistically, scores do not change significantly after taking the SAT twice.
SAT II
Also called Subject Tests, these are one-hour tests based on individual subjects. Some of the more
competitive schools require two or three Subject Tests, in addition to the SAT Reasoning Test. The
best time to take a Subject Test is just after completing the course related to the test subject. Like the
SAT Reasoning Test, the Subject Test is scored on a 200-800 point basis. A student can elect to take
up to three Subject Tests on one testing day.
The SAT II tests are as follows:
Math Level 1: Can be taken after Algebra 2
Math Level 2: Can be taken after Precalculus
Foreign Language: Should not be taken until the third year of a language has been completed.
The Language with Listening test (November only) is recommended only for students with
strong listening comprehension.
Physics
Chemistry
Biology
U.S. History
World History
Literature
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Test Preparation
The most important thing you can do to prepare for the SAT I and SAT II tests is to PRACTICE,
PRACTICE, PRACTICE. You may purchase a book of SAT practice tests and do 10-20 (or more!)
questions a night, along with your regular homework. Score yourself and if you get a question wrong,
read the description of the correct answer. When you are within a month of taking the test, take one
morning on a weekend, and time yourself taking one of the practice tests.
If your family can afford to pay for SAT tutoring, take advantage of the assistance. It is advisable to
take a class or see a tutor within a month of taking the test.
In addition, there are several online tutoring options. Please note that prices for tutoring services vary.
www.princetonreview.com
www.collegeboard.com
www.kaplan.com
www.prepme.com
www.Number2.com (FREE)
www.revolutionprep.com
www.ivywest.com
www.EurekaReview.com
www.freevocabulary.com
(5000 words that may be on the SAT)
BSA usually offers after-school test preparation courses before the fall (and sometimes spring) SAT
tests. The BSA courses should not be your only source of practice. They are only to provide extra
assistance.
Registration and sending scores
To register for the SAT, go to www/sat/collegeboard.org/register. If necessary (though not
recommended), you may also fill out a paper application well in advance of the registration deadline.
See Abby for paper applications. Please note the registration deadlines and test dates below.
The cost for taking the SAT is $50. You will have to pay with a credit card at the end of online
registration. If you receive free or reduced lunch, you are eligible for two SAT fee waivers. Please see
Abby to request an SAT fee waiver. Waivers are limited.
When you register, please write down your user name and password and keep them in a safe place.
After you have taken the test, your scores will be sent to you. This usually takes about three weeks.
It is the student’s responsibility to send his/her scores to the colleges to which he/she is applying. You
may do this from the College Board website (www.collegeboard.com). At the time of registration, you
may send your scores to four colleges for free. There is a fee for sending scores to the rest of your
schools. Please send your scores as soon as they are reported. It can take up to three weeks for
schools to receive SAT scores.
College Board, the organization that offers the SAT, has implemented a ‘Score Choice’ option. This
allows student to choose by test date which SAT score they want sent to colleges (I.e. You may have
your highest math score in May, but your highest Critical Reading score in October.) Please note that
many highly-selective colleges do not allow students to use the ‘Score Choice’ option.
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SAT I and II TEST AND REGISTRATION CALENDAR
Test Date Regular Registration Late Registration
(fees apply)
October 6, 2012 September 7, 2012 September 21, 2012
November 3, 2012 October 4, 2012 October 19, 2012
December 1, 2012 November 1, 2012 November 16, 2012
January 26, 2013 December 28, 2012 January 11, 2013
March 9, 2013 February 8, 2013 February 22, 2013
May 4, 2013 April 5, 2013 April 19, 2013
June 1, 2013 May 2, 2013 May 17, 2013
SAT II (SUBJECT TEST) SCHEDULE
Oct 6,
2012
Nov 3,
2012
Dec 1,
2012
Jan 26,
2013
May 4,
2013
June 1,
2013
Literature
Biology
Chemistry
Physics
Math Lev
1 & 2
â–
â–
â–
â–
â–
â–
World
History
â–
â–
Spanish
Language
(Reading
only)
â–
â–
â–
â–
â–
Spanish
Language
(Listening
only)
â–
To see a list of schools that do not require the SAT, go to www.fairtest.org
ACT
Some schools will accept ACT scores as well. Most students in the midwest and the south take the
ACT while students on the coasts take the SAT. A handful of BSA students every year decide to take
this test. The ACT is designed to test your skill levels
in English, Math, Reading, and Science. It also includes an optional 30-minute Writing test which
some schools require and some do not. The ACT is traditionally more content based than the SAT,
which focuses more on critical thinking and problem-solving skills. To read more about the difference
between the SAT and ACT, please go to http://www.collegedegree.com/library/act-sat. If you would
like to register, please see Abby.
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Auditions and portfolio reviews
All conservatories and visual art schools require an audition or portfolio review. Many colleges with
performing art or visual art programs require these as well. Please carefully review each school’s
audition/portfolio requirements. The teachers in your art department will help you prepare. For
performing art auditions, it is ideal (and usually required) to audition in person. Sometimes, a school
will accept a taped audition, but it is not recommended.
The general requirements are as follows:
Theatre: One or two monologues (classical and/or contemporary may be required)
Possibly a musical theatre piece or a dance combination
Vocal & Instrumental Music: Two or three pieces of your choice, or selected by the school.
Some of the more competitive conservatories require a pre-screening DVD or CD (which
may lead to an invitation to audition).
Possibly reading or ear training exercises
Dance: Dance department faculty observing a class
One or two prepared pieces (classical and/or modern)
Visual Art & Stage Production: Portfolio review
A portfolio can usually be submitted electronically.
Some schools may have an assignment or ‘challenge’ to complete and submit with the
application.
It is the student’s responsibility to schedule all auditions with each school. Many schools will not
allow you to schedule your audition or portfolio review until your application has been received. It is
important to schedule early as audition space can be limited so get your applications in as soon as
possible! Travel arrangements may have to be made as well.
If you are a music student, you may want to try to schedule a private lesson with a teacher (or teachers)
at each school. This is common practice, and a great opportunity for the teacher to get to know you
and your work personally, and for you to assess whether it will be a good fit. Call the music
department of the school or look online for the teacher’s contact information.
If you are applying to a school that does not require an audition or portfolio, you should still consider
sending a DVD/CD of a monologue, vocal or instrumental performance, dance solo, or portfolio. The
fact that you attend an arts high school makes you different. Even if you don’t plan to pursue your
current art, let it help you get into college!
Cost
Going to college can be expensive. Applying to college can be fairly expensive as well. Please take
this into consideration when planning your budget for the year.
Below are some costs that you may incur in the application process:
â–ª Application fees ($25 - $150 per application)
â–ª SAT registration and sending scores
â–ª Audition fees
â–ª Traveling expenses (college visits and auditions)
â–ª Stamps, envelopes, internet usage, etc.
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Paying For College: Financial Aid
Financial aid: funds provided to students and families to help pay for college.
Honest communication between parents and students is essential for choosing a college that is feasible
and reasonable as a financial obligation. The discussion about money, costs, and projected spending
can be a difficult one, but it is best to begin this discussion early so that you, as a student and family,
can make reasonable college choices.
Categories of Financial Aid
Need-Based: based on family income
Non Need-Based: based on merit, academic achievement, leadership, artistic/athletic ability, etc.
Types of Financial Aid
Scholarships
Money that does not have to be paid back
Usually awarded to students with strong academic and/or arts records.
Grants
Money that does not have to be paid back
Usually awarded on basis of financial need
Loans
Money students and parents borrow to help pay college expenses
Available from federal programs (Stafford, Perkins) and commercial banks, often at a low
interest rate.
Repayment from federal loans usually begins 6 months after students graduate from college
Employment/Work Study
Allows student to earn money while in school to help pay educational costs
In form of a paycheck, or non-monetary compensation, such as room and board
Sources of Financial Aid
Federal Government
Largest source of Financial aid
Aid awarded primarily on the basis of financial need
Must apply every year using the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Students and parents should complete the FAFSA (http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/) by
February 1st of the year the student will be attending college. The FAFSA determines
the family’s EFC (Expected Family Contribution) number based on the previous year’s
tax information. With that number, the colleges to which the student has applied
develop Financial Aid packages that will accompany the acceptance letters. You will
receive a different Financial Aid package from each college.
State Government
Residency requirements
Award aid on the basis of merit and need
Some programs use information from the FAFSA
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Deadlines vary from state to state
For more information: www.mhec.state.md.us
Private sources
Foundations, businesses, charitable organizations
Deadlines and application procedures vary widely
Begin researching private aid sources early
Free Internet Scholarship Search Engines:
www.finaid.org
www.collegeboard.com
www.fastweb.com
www.gocollege.com
www.meritaid.com
Civic organizations and churches
Research what is available in your community
To what organizations and churches do the student and family belong?
Application process usually begins in spring of senior year
Small scholarships add up!
Employers
Companies may have scholarships available to children of employees
Companies may have educational benefits for their employees
Schools (the colleges/conservatories to which the student is applying)
Largest source of grant aid.
Contact Financial Aid Office of school for requirements
Merit and need-based aid
Applications and deadlines
WHERE TO START?
Contact schools/visit schools’ Financial Aid websites to find out:
â–ªScholarship requirements
â–ªNeed-based aid requirements
▪Required forms (school applications, CSS profile – used for non-federal student aid, federal
tax returns, etc…)
â–ªFinancial Aid scholarships and deadlines (in addition to Application deadline) that are
specific to each school
Investigate private sources and learn more about aid available.
Families are encouraged to get an early estimate of their eligibility for federal student aid
(FAFSA4caster) at www.FederalStudentAid.ed.gov
Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by the earliest deadline. The FAFSA
is available every year on January 1. See below.
WHAT IS THE FAFSA?
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a standard form that collects demographic
and financial information about the student and family.
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The FAFSA is filed electronically at http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/ (available in English and Spanish).
Information from the FAFSA is used to calculate the Expected Family Contribution (EFC). This is the
amount of money a student and his or her family may reasonably be expected to contribute towards the
cost of the student’s education for the following academic year. The EFC is almost always higher than
you think it should be!
STEPS TO FEDERAL STUDENT AID*
1. Get free information and help from the financial aid office at the college you plan to attend, or
the U.S. Department of Education at www.FederalStudentAid.ed.gov or 1-800-FED-AID. Free
help is available any time during the application process. If an organization offers to help you
through the process, and charges you a fee, it is a scam! YOU SHOULD NEVER HAVE TO
PAY FOR HELP.
2. Get a Federal Student Aid PIN, a personal identification number. A PIN lets you apply, ‘sign’
your FAFSA, make corrections to your application information and more – so keep it safe. Go
to www.pin.ed.gov to get your pin number.
3. Collect the documents needed to apply, including income tax returns and W-2 forms (and other
records of income). A full list of what you will need is at www.fafsa.ed.gov. Tax return not
completed at the time you apply? Estimate the tax information, apply, and correct information
later.
4. Most colleges require that you file the FAFSA by January 15-February 1 for Regular Decision
applicants. Apply as soon as possible after January 1 to meet school and state aid deadlines.
Apply online at FAFSA on the web (the fastest and easiest way) by going to www.fafsa.ed.gov.
If you don’t already have your PIN, you can get it when you complete the online FAFSA.
5. The U.S. Department of Education will you send you your Student Aid Report (SAR) – the
result of your FAFSA. Review your SAR and, if necessary, make changes or corrections and
submit your SAR for reprocessing. Your complete, correct SAR will contain your Expected
Family Contribution (EFC) – the number used to determine your federal student aid
eligibility. IMPORTANT: Do not assume that the EFC number is the amount you will have to
pay for college. It is simply a guideline for schools to assess how much need you have.
6. The college that you plan to attend may request additional information from you. Be sure to
respond to any deadlines, or you might not receive federal student aid.
7. The colleges will tell you how much aid you can get at a particular school. Contact the
financial aid office if you have any questions about that aid being offered. Review award
letters from schools to compare amounts and types of aid being offered. Decide which school
to attend based on a combination of (a) how well the college suits your needs and (b) its
affordability after all aid is taken into account.
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CSS PROFILE
Many private colleges require the College Scholarship Service (CSS) PROFILE form in addition to the
FAFSA. You may register for the PROFILE online at https://profileonline.collegeboard.com. Consult
this site to determine which private colleges require submission of the profile. Some schools require
the PROFILE to be submitted by November 1 of senior year.
FINANCIAL AID PACKAGES
Based on the EFC, each college to which the student has applied will develop a financial aid package.
Financial aid packages can vary widely and are usually a combination of scholarships, grants, loans,
and work study.
PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE do not be seduced into going to a particular school if you will have to
take out a large amount of loans to do so. It is important to remember that you will be repaying these
loans (which can end up being $300, $500, $800 a MONTH for up to 30 years!) And that is before
graduate school!
*from www.FederalStudentAid.ed.gov/pubs
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Appendix
College Guidance Calendar
JUNIOR YEAR
NOTE: Though all SAT dates are included in this calendar, it is recommended that students take the
SAT in the spring of junior year and the fall of senior year.
SEPTEMBER:
September 7: Registration deadline for October SAT.
OCTOBER:
October 4: Registration deadline for November SAT.
October 6: SAT I and SAT II tests are offered.
October 17: The Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT) is taken during periods 1-5. All juniors
are registered and required to take this test. The PSAT qualifies students for National Merit
Scholarship and National Achievement Program consideration. Test results are returned to students
and parents in December.
*October 28: NACAC Performing Arts College Fair, 1-3 PM, Washington Convention Center (D.C.)
*October 29: NACAC College Fair/Baltimore, 5-8 PM, Baltimore Convention Center
NOVEMBER:
November 1: Registration deadline for December SAT
November 3: SAT I and SAT II tests are offered.
*November 7: NACAC College Fair/Washington D.C., 6-8 PM, Washington Convention Center.
DECEMBER:
December 1: SAT I and SAT II tests are offered.
December 28: Registration deadline for January SAT.
JANUARY:
January 21-28: Audition week. Suggested time for college visits.
January 26: SAT I and SAT II tests are offered.
FEBRUARY:
February 8: Registration deadline for March SAT.
February 7: Junior College Night, 6 PM. Juniors and their parents have the opportunity to review
the college search/selection process.
MARCH:
- Individual student/parent/department head college meetings begin this month and continue through
May.
March 9: SAT I test is offered (The SAT II is not offered in March.)
March 25-April 2: Spring Break. Suggested time for college visits.
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APRIL:
April 5: Registration deadline for May SAT.
If students have not taken the SAT I yet, they are REQUIRED to register for the May or June SAT.
Students who need to take the SAT I and SAT II (also called ‘Subject Tests’) are encouraged to take
the SAT I in May and the SAT II tests in June.
MAY: May 2: Registration deadline for June SAT.
May 4: SAT I and SAT II tests are offered.
JUNE:
June 1: SAT I and SAT II tests are offered.
SUMMER MONTHS: Students and parents should RESEARCH, RESEARCH, RESEARCH
colleges and conservatories. If possible, students are strongly encouraged to visit college campuses for
tours and interviews over the summer. Students are expected to have completed the majority of their
college research by the end of the summer.
*For more info about NACAC college fairs, go to www.nacacnet.org, Events/Training.
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College Guidance Calendar
SENIOR YEAR
Baltimore School for the Arts sponsors many visits by college admissions officers. The dates for these
visits are updated frequently and will be announced in homeroom. Students must schedule their own
on-site tours and interviews with colleges and conservatories.
Early Decision and Early Action applications are usually due in November. Most Regular Decision
applications are due from November to February. It is in a student’s best interest to apply AS EARLY
AS POSSIBLE to every school on his/her list. Please see ‘Application Process’ section for transcript
request and teacher recommendation processes.
SEPTEMBER:
-Students are encouraged to register for the October or November SAT I and/or SAT II tests.
-Individual student/parent/department head meetings re. the application process, testing needs,
finalizing college lists.
-Students should finalize their college/conservatory application list by the end of this month. Each
student should know the schools’ deadlines and requirements.
September 7: Registration deadline for October SAT.
OCTOBER: -Individual student/parent/department head meetings re. the application process and finalizing college
lists.
-If applying for financial aid, secure your electronic PIN number now to file the FAFSA in January
(www.pin.ed.gov).*
-If a school requires the PROFILE registration form for financial aid, register by November 1
(https://profileonline.collegeboard.com)*
-Early Decision and Early Action applicants must request teacher recommendations.
October 4: Registration deadline for November SAT.
October 5 : Transcript requests/Secondary School Forms for November deadline applications are due
to Abby.
Recommendation requests for November deadline applications are due to teachers.
October 6: SAT I and SAT II tests are offered.
**October 28: NACAC Performing Arts College Fair, 1-3 PM, Washington Convention Center (D.C.)
**October 29: NACAC College Fair/Baltimore, 5-8 PM, Baltimore Convention Center
NOVEMBER:
-Most Early Decision and Early Action deadlines are in November.
-Submit applications that have rolling deadlines.
-Regular Decision applicants must request teacher recommendations.
-Arrange college interviews (if offered).
November 1: Registration deadline for December SAT.
November 2: ALL Transcript Requests/Secondary School Forms are due to Abby.
ALL Recommendation requests are due to teachers.
November 3: SAT I and SAT II tests are offered.
**November 7: NACAC College Fair/Washington D.C., 6-8 PM, Washington Convention Center.
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DECEMBER:
-If a student is auditioning for a college/conservatory, audition dates should be reserved this month.
December 1: SAT I and SAT II tests are offered.
December 2: Portfolio Day at MICA
December 28: Registration deadline for January SAT.
JANUARY:
January 1: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) becomes available. Most colleges
require filing by January 15-February 1 for Regular Decision applicants.
January 8: Financial Aid Night, 6 PM. Senior parents have the opportunity to learn about the
Financial Aid process from a Financial Aid representative from a local college.
January 26: SAT I and SAT II tests are offered.
FEBRUARY:
-Most scholarship applications are due in February and March.
APRIL: -Colleges mail last acceptances and include Financial Aid packages.
MAY: -Senior exit interviews take place.
-Advanced Placement exams offered.
May 1: Most colleges require students to accept or decline their offers of admission.
JUNE: June 2: Seniors graduate!
*Please see ‘Financial Aid’ section for more detailed information.
**For more info about NACAC college fairs, go to www.nacacnet.org, Events/Training.
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Senior year Credits
Academics
All academic classes 1 credit
Health 0.5 credit
Fitness 0.5 credit
Dance
Ballet 2 credits
Modern 1 credit
Pas 0.5 credit
Pointe 0.5 credit
(If Pas OR Pointe, then 1 credit)
Theatre (Acting)
Acting 4 2 credits
Voice 4 1 credit
Audition Studio 0.5 credit
Movement 4 0.5 credit
Stage Production
Projects 3 0.5 credit
Costumes 4 1 credit
Set Design 4 1 credit
Theatre Business/
Mentoring 0.5 credit
Video 3 1 credit
Visual Art
Mixed Media 1 credit
Sculpture 2 1 credit
Printmaking 2 1 credit
Ceramics 2 1 credit
Painting 3 1 credit
Photography 2 1 credit
Video 1 credit
If taking an additional electives to the above, 1
credit (each)
Music
Chorus 1 credit
Chamber Chorus 1 credit
Orchestra 1 credit
Fr/Germ Diction 0.5 credit
Private Lesson 0.5 credit
Music Theory 2 0.5 credit
Music Theory 3 1 credit
Music Theory 4 0.5 credit
Music Lit 2 0.5 credit
MIDI 0.5 credit
Jazz Lit/20th
c Lit 0.5 credit
Small ensembles 0.5 credit (each)
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Interviews
Helpful Hints
Please dress appropriately for your college interview. You should look neat and presentable. Avoid
jeans, t-shirts, short skirts, torn or ripped clothing, or clothing with slogans. If you have any questions
about what is appropriate, please see Abby.
If you are offered a personal interview, be prepared! A good interview is a mutual sharing of
information. Think about some things that might make you different than other students that are
interviewed (Your going to BSA is one of them!) What would you like the interviewer to know about
you?
Research the school as much as possible. Take questions with you. Thoughtful questions can lead to
answers that help you decide if the college is a good match. Create a few favorite questions that cover
a number of areas of college life. If you are pursuing performing or visual art, your questions may be
about that program.
The interviewer may ask you questions similar to the following:
â–ªWho in your life has most influenced you?
â–ªTell me about a challenge that you have overcome.
â–ªWhat are the last three books that you read that were not part of your school work?
â–ªWhat do you think you can contribute to our student body?
â–ªWhat do you think has been your biggest achievement?
â–ªHow did you spend last summer?
â–ªHow do you define success?
â–ªWhat is your biggest weakness? Strength?
â–ªHow did you come to include this college in your choices?
â–ªWhat is the most significant contribution you have made to your school or community?
â–ªWhat has been your greatest experience in high school?
â–ªTell me about yourself. (Focus on three things.)
â–ª If you could meet any important figure in the past or present, who would it be and what would you talk about?
The following can be some useful questions to ask the interviewer. Please use these as a guideline –
make them your own and make sure they pertain to the college you are visiting!
â–ªHow many students are in a typical first-year class? Who teaches them (Professors? Graduate students?)? Do they break
into smaller discussion groups? Led by whom?
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â–ªWhat were the social or cultural highlights last year?
▪What is the role of Greek life (fraternities and sororities) on campus? If I didn’t join, might that limit my social life?
â–ªWhat can be most difficult for first-year students to adjust to when they first arrive?
â–ªWhen does a student have to declare a major or a concentration? Can one double major?
â–ªCan a student change from one major to another without difficulty?
â–ªWhat types of career counseling services exist? Are their opportunities for internships?
â–ªCan you tell me more about the ___________________________? (newspaper, junior year abroad program, drama club)
â–ªWhat percentage of students lives on campus? What alternatives are available for upperclassmen?
â–ªAre there practice rooms and art studios available if a student is not in a particular major?
â–ªHow safe is the surrounding neighborhood?
â–ªAre there many international students enrolled?
â–ªHow easy is it to get the classes one needs/wants?
â–ªWhat are the most distinctive qualities of your institution?
Finally, please send an interviewer a thank you note (handwritten and mailed, not in an email) no later
than two days after the interview has taken place. If you need assistance with acquiring stationary or
writing the note, please see Abby.
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Useful Websites COLLEGE SEARCH
http://connection.naviance.com/bsah/
Your personalized Naviance account
www.nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator
www.petersons.com
Advanced Search recommended
www.collegeprowler.com
Current college students review schools
www.unigo.com
Current college students review schools
www.collegeboard.com
www.collegeconfidential.com
www.collegeview.com
www.princetonreview.com
www.campustours.com
Virtual college tours, campus maps, etc…
www.nacacnet.org
National Association for College Admission
Counseling.
Information about upcoming college and
conservatory fairs in the Baltimore/D.C area.
STANDARDIZED TESTING
www.collegeboard.com
Register for the SAT, check scores, and send scores
to colleges
www.act.org
Register for the ACT, check scores, and send them
to colleges.
www.princetonreview.com/sat-act.aspx
Article about the differences between the SAT and
the ACT.
www.fairtest.com
A list of colleges that do not require the SAT or
ACT.
Online test preparation:
www.princetonreview.com
www.collegeboard.com
www.kaplan.com
www.prepme.com
www.Number2.com (FREE)
www.revolutionprep.com
www.ivywest.com
www.EurekaReview.com
www.freevocabulary.com (5000 words that may be
on the SAT)
APPLYING TO COLLEGE
www.commonapp.org
Common Application
FINANCIAL AID
Private scholarship search engines:
www.finaid.org
www.collegeboard.com
www.fastweb.com
www.gocollege.com
FAFSA:
www.fafsa.ed.gov
To obtain your FAFSA pin number
www.pin.ed.gov
FAFSA4caster (Financial Aid estimator)
www.FederalStudentAid.ed.gov
CSS PROFILE:
https://profileonline.collegeboard.com
Maryland Higher Education Commission
www.mhec.state.md.us
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Baltimore School for the Arts
College Acceptances
Class of 2012
Adelphi University
Albright College
Allegheny College
American Musical and Dramatic Academy
American University
Arcadia University
Bard College
Belmont University
Berklee College of Music
Binghamton University
Boston Conservatory
Boston University
Bowling Green State University
Brown University
Butler University
California Institute of the Arts
Carnegie Mellon University
Catawba College
Chowan University
Clark Atlanta University
Cleveland Institute of Art
Coastal Carolina University
College of Creative Studies
Columbia University
Connecticut College
Cooper Union
Coppin State University
Covenant College
Dartmouth College
Delaware State University
Dominican University of California/LINES Ballet
Drexel University
Duke University
Eastman School of Music
Elizabethtown College
Elon University
Emerson College
Emory & Henry College
Eugene Lang College
Fairleigh Dickinson University
Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising
Fashion Institute of Technology
Fordham University/Alvin Ailey American Dance
Theater
Frostburg State University
Full Sail University
Gannon University
Gardner-Webb University
George Mason University
George Washington University
Goucher College
Grace Bible College
Guilford College
Hofstra University
Howard University
Indiana University Bloomington
Indiana Wesleyan University
Ithaca College
John Jay College of Criminal Justice
Johns Hopkins University
Liberty University
Limestone College
Lycoming College
Lynn University
Maine College of Art
Mannes College The New School for Music
Maryland Institute College of Art
Marymount Manhattan College
McDaniel College
McGill University
Moore College of Art & Design
Moravian College
Morgan State University
Mt. Vernon Nazarene University
Muhlenberg College
New England Conservatory
New York Film Academy
New York University
North Carolina A&T State University
Northeastern University
Oberlin College
Otterbein University
Pace University
Parsons The New School for Design
Peabody Institute
Pennsylvania State University
Point Park University
Princeton University
Randolph-Macon College
Regent University
Rider University
Ringling College of Art and Design
Rochester Institute of Technology
Rowan University
Salisbury University
San Francisco Art Institute
San Francisco State University
Savannah College of Art and Design
School of the Art Institute of Chicago
School of the Museum of Fine Arts
School of Visual Arts
Seton Hill University
Shenandoah University
Shepherd University
Siena College
Simmons College
27
Spelman College
Spring Arbor University
St. Johns College
St. Mary’s College of Maryland
Stevenson University
SUNY Purchase
Susquehanna University
Temple University
Texas Christian University
The New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music
Towson University
Tufts University
University of Arizona
University of California, Irvine
University of California, Los Angeles
University of Cincinnati
University of Hartford
University of Illinois
University of Maryland, Baltimore County
University of Maryland, College Park
University of Maryland, Eastern Shore
University of Michigan
University of Minnesota
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
University of North Carolina School of the Arts
University of Oklahoma
University of Rochester
University of the Arts
University of the Pacific
University of Virginia
University of Washington
Virginia Commonwealth University
Virginia Polytechnic Institute
Virginia State University
Virginia Union University
Warren Wilson College
Washington & Jefferson College
Washington College
Washington University
Waynesburg University
Widener University
Wilkes University
William Patterson University
Williams College
York College of Pennsylvania